Peacock Fern

Selaginella willdenowii or Peacock Fern is often mistaken for a true fern but is actually a species of spikemoss. It derives its name from its iridescent blue leaves, which is attributed to an adaptive trait allowing it to withstand direct sunlight that would otherwise damage shade adapted plants. 

At HTBG, the Selaginella willdenowii lines many of our trails and can be found in it’s best display along the paths and rocks near the three-tier waterfall. Be sure to take your polarized sunglasses off to best appreciate the iridescent effects.